Country calling for Lafferty

Danny Lafferty’s impressive form for the Clarets has been rewarded with another call-up by Northern Ireland.

Lafferty has been included in Michael O’Neill’s squad for a friendly in Malta next month.

And the 23-year-old left-back is in line to add to his two senior caps in the game at the Ta’Qali National Stadium on Wednesday, 6 February.

Lafferty made his competitive debut for Northern Ireland in their World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan last November and the former Derry City defender has since impressed for the Clarets in a run of eight starts in Burnley’s back four since replacing the injured Ben Mee.

“I think it’s fair to say he’s performed well,” said boss Sean Dyche.

“He’s served us well and served himself and the team well really in Ben’s absence.

“Ben’s going to be looking at that now, but that’s healthy for the squad.”

Wales also play a friendly on that international date with a game against Austria at Swansea’s Liberty Stadium.

And striker Sam Vokes will be pressing for inclusion in Chris Coleman’s squad after a recent run of starts for the Clarets.